Located between Auckland and Tauranga, Ngātea is a vital refuelling stop for travellers. Z Energy recognised the strategic importance of adding EV fast chargers to its petrol station, but the site faced a significant obstacle. The local electricity network was constrained, with voltage drops during peak times threatening both charging reliability and wider grid stability.
Working closely with Powerco, Kwetta deployed its next-generation charging hardware with built-in STATCOM functionality. This advanced voltage regulation technology stabilises the grid in real time, ensuring reliable EV charging while actively supporting the network during periods of high demand.
Increased Capacity: Enabled up to 500kW of EV fast charging without the need for costly grid upgrades.
Rapid Deployment: Site commissioned in under three months, ready for the peak summer travel period.
Ongoing Grid Support: STATCOM functionality continues to regulate voltage at Ngātea, even when chargers are not in use, strengthening grid resilience.
The Ngātea project demonstrates how innovation and collaboration can unlock new capacity on existing infrastructure, avoiding expensive and time-consuming upgrades. By combining advanced power electronics with industry partnerships, Kwetta is redefining what’s possible for EV charging on constrained grids.
“Deployments like Ngātea prove that fleet and public charging can expand rapidly, even on constrained networks,” says Connor Richards, Growth Director at Kwetta. “Our integrated approach delivers speed, reliability, and long-term value for operators and grid partners alike.”
Kwetta continues to work alongside utilities, energy companies, and charge point operators across Australasia and Europe, delivering smarter, faster, and more sustainable electrification.
